The dragon (龙, lóng) has been a central emblem in Chinese culture for thousands of years, representing power, wisdom, and imperial authority. Throughout history, Chinese dynasties used dragon imagery on their flags, signifying the emperor’s divine rule and the nation’s strength. The imperial dragon banner was not just a national symbol but also a political and military emblem, reflecting the shifting ideologies and artistic influences of each dynasty.
In this article, we will explore the origin, evolution, meaning, and variations of dragon symbols on flags throughout Chinese history, from the early dynasties to the final imperial rule of the Qing Dynasty.
1. The Origin of Dragon Symbols on Chinese Flags
1.1. Early Use of the Dragon as a Royal Emblem
The dragon has been a symbol of power in China since the Shang (1600–1046 BCE) and Zhou (1046–256 BCE) Dynasties. Ancient texts describe emperors as “Sons of the Dragon”, linking their legitimacy to celestial forces. However, it was during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE) that the dragon was officially used as an imperial insignia.
During this period, battle banners and ceremonial flags often depicted dragons, especially in military parades and court rituals. These banners signified protection from divine forces and the emperor’s mandate from heaven (天命, Tiānmìng).
1.2. Development of the Dragon Flag as a National Symbol
By the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), dragons began appearing on official banners used in the imperial court and on the battlefield. The color, number of claws, and design of the dragon became more standardized:
- Gold dragons on red flags were reserved for the emperor.
- Black or blue dragons appeared on military banners.
- Two dragons facing each other symbolized unity and protection.
This tradition continued through subsequent dynasties, with each era modifying the design and meaning of the dragon emblem on their flags.
2. The Evolution of Dragon Flags Through Chinese Dynasties
2.1. Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE): The Birth of the Dragon Standard
The Tang Dynasty established many imperial traditions that influenced later Chinese dynasties. The dragon flag of this period was mainly used in military campaigns and official ceremonies. The five-clawed golden dragon was introduced as an imperial emblem, appearing on banners and palace decorations.
Tang military flags often featured:
- A coiled dragon on a red or yellow background to symbolize the emperor’s protection.
- Paired dragons representing the balance of yin and yang.
- Cloud patterns surrounding the dragon to signify divine guidance.
2.2. Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE): Refining the Dragon Banner
During the Song Dynasty, dragon designs became more refined and detailed, appearing on court banners, military standards, and naval flags. The Song court introduced:
- Golden dragons on dark blue flags, symbolizing the emperor’s divine power over both land and sea.
- Square flags with dragon motifs, used by royal guards.
- Naval flags with flying dragons, emphasizing the dynasty’s naval strength.
This period also saw increased artistic stylization, with dragons depicted in more fluid, dynamic poses.
2.3. Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368 CE): Mongol Influence on Dragon Flags
The Yuan Dynasty, established by the Mongols, retained the dragon as a symbol of the emperor’s authority but incorporated Mongolian artistic influences.
- The dragon’s design became bolder and more aggressive, reflecting Mongol military dominance.
- Black and gold dragons appeared on banners used in imperial processions.
- The dragon was often shown surrounded by flames, symbolizing power and conquest.
Despite the foreign rule, the dragon remained a strong Chinese national symbol, linking the Mongol rulers to traditional Chinese legitimacy.
2.4. Ming Dynasty (1368–1644 CE): The Peak of the Imperial Dragon Flag
The Ming Dynasty restored Han Chinese rule and placed great emphasis on the dragon flag as an imperial symbol. Key developments included:
- The standardization of the five-clawed dragon as the exclusive emblem of the emperor.
- The use of bright yellow as the imperial color, symbolizing the central power of the empire.
- Military banners featuring dragons accompanied by phoenixes, reinforcing the emperor’s connection to heavenly forces.
Ming naval flags, particularly during Zheng He’s voyages, featured dragons and waves, symbolizing dominance over the seas.
2.5. Qing Dynasty (1644–1912 CE): The Final Evolution of the Dragon Flag
The Qing Dynasty, ruled by the Manchus, developed the most well-known version of the imperial dragon flag, which later became China’s first official national flag.
Key features of the Qing dragon flag:
- A large blue dragon on a golden-yellow background, symbolizing the emperor’s supreme power.
- A red sun, representing the unity of the empire.
- Five claws on each foot, marking the emperor’s exclusive right to the dragon symbol.
By the late 19th century, this flag became China’s first modern national flag, representing the Qing Empire in diplomatic missions and foreign conflicts.
3. The Symbolism of the Dragon on Imperial Flags
3.1. The Meaning of the Dragon’s Features
- Five Claws: Reserved for the emperor, representing absolute authority.
- Four Claws: Used by princes and noble officials.
- Three Claws: Used in military flags and banners of lower-ranking officials.
The dragon’s posture also held meaning:
- Coiling Dragons: Represented eternal rule and cosmic balance.
- Flying Dragons: Symbolized the emperor’s dynamic power.
- Guarding Dragons: Depicted the protection of the empire.
3.2. Colors and Their Symbolism
- Yellow: The exclusive color of the emperor, linked to the earth element and central power.
- Red: Associated with fire, prosperity, and protection.
- Blue: Represented heaven and divine authority.
- Black: Used for military campaigns, symbolizing strength and intimidation.
4. The End of the Imperial Dragon Flag and Its Legacy
With the fall of the Qing Dynasty in 1912, the imperial dragon flag was retired, replaced by the modern flags of the Republic of China (ROC) and later the People’s Republic of China (PRC). However, its influence remains in:
- Historical emblems and cultural heritage.
- The flags of Taiwan (ROC), which still feature a golden dragon in some military insignia.
- Martial arts and military units that use dragon symbols in banners and decorations.
Even today, the dragon remains a powerful national and cultural icon, deeply embedded in China’s history and identity.
Conclusion
The dragon flag was more than just a banner—it was a symbol of imperial power, divine rule, and military strength. From the Tang Dynasty’s ceremonial banners to the Qing Dynasty’s national flag, the dragon evolved alongside China’s political and cultural history. Though the imperial flag no longer flies, its legacy lives on in art, tradition, and national pride, ensuring that the dragon’s influence endures in modern China.
Leave a Reply